ABSTRACT
The analysis of the biological correlates of learned behavior has seen an important resurgence with the introduction of molecular technology. Continued study of learning may allow us to extend our understanding of this important process to the molecular level. Historical, theoretical, and methodological reasons have often presented certain systems as models for the analysis of fundamental problems. Drosophila, the fruit fly, has long been recognized as a practical system for the study of problems in genetics. The study of learning has resulted in similarly useful preparations. As our questions evolve, the available models may or may not continue to serve our needs. Drosophila were an important tool in the early study of transmission genetics and have continued to be a significant resource in the analysis of molecular genetic problems. Studies of learning at the molecular and cellular levels will require equally flexible investigators and preparations.
